The basic concept of a self storage rental business is this: you pay for a monthly rental fee, you store your items in a storage unit, and you continue to do so until you no longer need that storage unit.  Prices vary according to the size of the storage unit.

Those are the basics, and they are true for mini storage in Rhode Island, Alaska, Oregon, and Texas.

With that in mind, we thought we would share five self storage tips every mini storage customer should know before renting a storage unit.  We are Blue Mound 287 Self Storage, serving the Greater Fort Worth area. Call us at 817-439-1380 if you are in Fort Worth and in need of secure self storage.

Now, let’s take a look at those five tips we promised you.

Tip #1: Save money by packing properly

Using our own Blue Mound 287 Self Storage as an example, a 5’x5’ storage unit costs $45 per month. The next size unit, a 5’x10’, costs $75 per month. That is a difference of $360 per year for that additional twenty-five square feet.

You can save on storage space by packing properly and using hard-cover boxes for packing. Why? Because boxes with hard covers, like plastic totes, can be stacked one on top of the other, and proper stacking may mean you won’t need the larger storage unit.  A related tip: do not store large items if at all possible. They take up far too much space, and space costs money.

Tip #2: Not all storage facilities are secure and protected

“Secure self storage” is a bit misleading, and yet most storage facilities will advertise their location as being secure. A fence around the storage buildings does not make them secure. A padlock on a main gate does not mean secure. And video cameras which are not monitored does not equal security.

At Blue Mound 287 Self Storage, we have our entire perimeter fenced, we have only one access point, a main gate, which will only open with a personalized, computer access card; we also have on-site management and we have monitored security cameras throughout the premises.

That equals secure self storage!

Tip #3: Protect your possessions with climate control storage

Areas of the country with extreme temperatures, like Texas, or like Minnesota, have unique storage problems. Extreme temperatures will mean oxidation, and oxidation can ruin surfaces. The only way to protect against oxidation is to rent climate controlled storage.  Yes, it costs extra money, but so does having your computer or your collectibles ruined by the weather.

Tip #4:  Self Storage businesses are about more than just boxes of stuff

Blue Mound 287 Self Storage has auto storage. We have boat storage. We have RV storage, and we have trailer storage.  Check out the self storage businesses in your area. You might save money on that boat storage instead of paying high prices at a marina.

Tip #5:  Be patient and wait for the specials

Specials happens all the time with self storage businesses.  They usually tie into a move-in special, something like “the first month free,” or “rent one month, get the second free.” Be on the lookout. Shop around. There is money to be saved for those willing to do a little investigation.

A word about Blue Mound 287 Self Storage

Blue Mound 287 Self Storage has been serving the great people of Fort Worth for a number of years, and our longevity speaks volumes about the service we provide. Call us today for all of your storage needs.